“Their Royal Highnesses The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are pleased to announce the christening of Prince George will take place on Wednesday, 23rd October at The Chapel Royal, St. James’s Palace,” Kensington Palace said in a statement released earlier today. “Prince George will be christened by the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Reverend Justin Welby.”

While royal christenings are always performed by the standing Archbishop of Canterbury, the choice of venue for Prince George might raise a few eyebrows. William was actually christened in the Music Room of Buckingham Palace back in 1982, as were most royals born in the 20th century. Could the decision to switch to St. James’s Palace be a buck from tradition?

Perhaps not. The Chapel Royal at St. James’s Palace is the site of a few other royal christenings, including that of Princess Beatrice of York. The site also has special significance for the Royal Family — it is the location where Princess Diana’s body was kept until the eve of her funeral, when her coffin was famously moved to Kensington Palace. Whether this was taken into consideration when choosing the location for Prince George’s christening or it happens to be pure coincidence, it’s quite touching to think of St. James’s Palace coming full circle to become a place of joy and the celebration of life once again.

Aside from location, we do know that there is one tradition Will and Kate have already gone against — the choice of christening gown. Instead of wearing the 167-year-old satin gown that the past 30+ royal babies have worn, Prince George will be wearing a replica. After the ancient garment was used back in 2004, it was decided that it was far too delicate to be used again, and thus the replica gown was created. I guess in terms of royal christenings, not wearing centuries-old dresses is considered to be edgy!

The public has only gotten to see the Royal Baby twice since his birth — once when he left the hospital with Will and Kate, and once when new photos of the royal family were released last month. Here’s hoping that we will be graced with some gorgeous photos come christening time. Until then, take a look at these pictures of the adorable Royal Family to tie you over until October 23!

First Look! 1 of 7

The entire world was waiting to see Kate and Will emerge with their new baby, and they were just as adorable as anyone could have hoped for!

Photo credit: PacificCoastNews.com

Royal Family 2 of 7

The Royal Family is complete, and looking happier than ever.

Photo credit: PacificCoastNews.com

Close Up 3 of 7

We can't wait to see if Prince George looks more like his mom or his dad!

Photo credit: PacificCoastNews.com

Parents of the Year 4 of 7

Will and Kate are both already so natural at this whole parenting thing!

Photo credit: PacificCoastNews.com

Proud Dad 5 of 7

You know Will is already busting with pride over his beautiful son.

Photo credit: PacificCoastNews.com

Two Babies! 6 of 7

Will and Kate released their first family portrait, taken by Kate's father Michael Middleton, back in August. The photos feature not just Prince George, but also the couple's first pride and joy — their dog Lupa!

Photo credit: Michael Middleton

Can’t Wait for More 7 of 7

This trio is truly the epitome of a picture-perfect family, and we can't wait to see more photos of them in the future!

Use a Facebook account to add a comment, subject to Facebook's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Your Facebook name, profile photo and other personal information you make public on Facebook (e.g., school, work, current city, age) will appear with your comment. Learn More.